NH House passes bill targeting Northern Pass

CONCORD, N.H. (AP) — New Hampshire's House has given preliminary approval to putting limits on energy projects like wind turbines and Northern Pass.

The House voted 171-139 Wednesday to direct the state's site evaluation committee to give preference in issuing permits to privately funded energy projects like Northern Pass if they bury their transmission lines. The House referred the bill to the Ways and Means Committee for review before taking a final vote.

Supporters said the bill is designed to lessen the likelihood that New Hampshire residents will suffer the visual impact of transmission lines carrying power to southern New England. They said other states have not planned for their energy needs like New Hampshire.

Critics said the Legislature should not interfere with the site evaluation committee.